Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Kuykendall.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I began my insurance career in 1991 with Cigna Insurance as a claims processor. In 1993 I moved to Farmers Insurance as a receptionist and quickly rose to the level of a licensed CSR. I was there for several years and eventually took a job at United American Insurance Company in Stonebriar at Frisco. During this time I gained valuable health and Life insurance experience. I also worked as an agent in the Medicare supplement market and then went on to work as an office manager for one of the premier Nationwide Agents in Dallas followed by Agency Manager for a Farmers Agent for 9 years. I always dreamed of having my own agency and in May of 2012, I followed my dream and opened this agency. I knew inside I could do it, but it was a scary step to take. Now, 5 years later, I am growing with the community. We started it with only $6900 and I worked hard and long to build it to where I am today.
All of the hard work has been worth it. In June of this year, Safeco Insurance® honored my agency. Kuykendall Insurance, with membership in the Safeco® Key Agent Program. I was selected for membership in the Safeco Key Agent Program, which recognizes the outstanding achievement and partnership of only the best agencies and only 10% of independent insurance agencies that sell Safeco personal lines products receive this distinguished honor.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It is challenging to be a female business owner. Most insurance agency owners are male and I knew this would be an obstacle. I knew with all of my experience (25 yrs.) that I had already built a reputation with my customers and I was more than willing to put in the work to be recognized as a hardworking business owner among my peers.
Secondly, being a wife and a mother while running a business is also very challenging. Finding the time to take care of my family and maintain a level of hard work was a huge obstacle. I had to find a way to balance my time, Society’s perception is that you can’t be effective running a business if you have a family. I had to prove to myself that it is possible. I was also afraid of failure. The rule of thumb with insurance agencies is that if you can make it 5 years, you can make it. Five years is a long time and I was worried I would fail. I had to tell myself over and over that I could do it. I surpassed the 5 year mark on May 22, 2017.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am a full service personal and commercial insurance agency with access to all types of insurance. We sell, field underwrite and service our clients policies.
We are known for the personal touch we add and we believe in the value of relationships with our clients. We strive to build a lasting relationship through trust and dedication.
We offer superior customer service and we are ready to help each and every customer with the entire process. With us, you aren’t a policy number, you’re family.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I lived in a very small town. I was friendly, outgoing and loyal. I was always on the go and was involved in many activities. I had a couple of hobbies and loved a challenge. Being competitive is my nature.
Contact Info:
- Address: 413 E Interstate 30
Royse City, Texas 75189 - Website: kuykendall-insurance.com
- Phone: 972-635-6255
- Email: melanie@kuykendall-insurance.com
- Facebook: alllinesinsuranceservices
- Twitter: kuykins
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
